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via RacingNews365Cadillac fined for Colton Herta's technical breachCadillac has received a fine due to a rules violation involving driver Colton Herta during Free Practice 1 at the Italian Grand Prix. A team representative is also required to appear before the stewards to address the technical non-conformity of Herta's car.
via grandprix.comKomatsu confirms five-driver fight for Ocon's Haas seatHaas team principal Ayao Komatsu has confirmed that Esteban Ocon is one of five drivers vying for a single seat in the 2027 season. The other contenders include Ryo Hirakawa, Jack Doohan, Leonardo Fornaroli, and Rafael Camara, with testing already underway to assess their performances. Ocon's experience and familiarity with the team are highlighted as significant factors in the selection process, especially following a challenging 2026 season for Haas.
The team is gathering comparative data from various tests, with performance being the primary criterion for selection. While Ocon has the advantage of experience, the younger drivers bring different relationships with the team's partners and varying levels of performance. The decision on the driver lineup does not need to be immediate, but the testing program indicates a serious evaluation rather than mere contingency planning.
via grandprix.comBearman gets Haas's only upgraded Ferrari engineOliver Bearman will be the only Haas driver to race with the upgraded Ferrari engine at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, while Esteban Ocon will use the previous engine specification. This decision was made by team principal Ayao Komatsu, who noted that Ocon had received new components on two prior occasions, and the allocation is aimed at balancing the season's opportunities rather than favoring one driver over the other.
Both drivers will benefit from a significant aerodynamic update, although the impact of the engine difference will be more pronounced at Monza due to its unique layout and demands on engine performance. Ocon has acknowledged that the older engine will result in a performance deficit, and while he will eventually receive the upgraded engine, the current setup will provide a clear comparison of the two power units during the race weekend.
via Formula1.comWhy Ocon isn't receiving the new Haas power unit in MonzaHaas is set to debut a significant upgrade package at the Italian Grand Prix, marking their first major update since May. Both drivers, Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon, are optimistic about the new aero upgrades, although only Bearman will benefit from a new Ferrari power unit due to limited availability. The team has opted to run both cars with the new specifications from the start of practice, rather than testing them separately, to avoid logistical challenges and maximize performance at the power-sensitive Monza circuit.
The decision to allocate the upgraded power unit to Bearman, who is currently ahead of Ocon in the championship, reflects the team's strategy to enhance performance in light of recent struggles. Team Principal Ayao Komatsu explained that the choice was also influenced by previous upgrades given to Ocon, aiming to balance performance improvements between the two drivers. Haas hopes these changes will help them recover from a disappointing race in the Netherlands.
via PlanetF1Ferrari introduces engine upgrades at MonzaFerrari has brought four new components and a second ADUO power unit upgrade to the Monza circuit. Early telemetry indicates improved performance, although the team still trails Mercedes in straight-line speed.
via f1technical.netBearman hopeful Haas’ major Monza upgrade can reignite 2026 seasonThe Haas team has not released a major upgrade since the Canadian Grand Prix, and Bearman emphasizes the importance of this new package to improve their performance. Despite facing resource limitations and longer turnaround times for upgrades, the team is focused on scoring points at Monza and hopes to replicate their successful second half from the previous season, although the competitive landscape has changed significantly.
via Motorsport.comJack Doohan opens up on Michael Schumacher bond and gift that influenced his careerJack Doohan, the reserve driver for Haas F1 Team, shared insights about his bond with Michael Schumacher, highlighting their relationship as neighbors and family friends. He recalled receiving his first go-kart from Schumacher, which played a significant role in his early career in motorsport. Doohan's reflections come as the Italian Grand Prix weekend prepares to honor Schumacher with special tributes, including Ferrari liveries and an honorary lap by Sebastian Vettel in Schumacher's iconic F2002 car.
Doohan expressed that his experiences with Schumacher went beyond the racing world, emphasizing the human side of top athletes. He noted that Schumacher's achievements, including his seven world championships, are inspiring, but it is the personal connection and the normalcy of their interactions that left a lasting impact on him. This perspective shapes Doohan's approach to Formula 1, reminding him that drivers are just regular people with everyday routines.
via f1technical.netKomatsu rejects claims Gene Haas has lost interest in Formula 1Ayao Komatsu, the team principal of Haas, has strongly refuted claims made by former principal Günther Steiner that Gene Haas has lost interest in Formula 1. Komatsu emphasized that Haas has been present at every European race this season, except for the Dutch Grand Prix, and is expected to attend several upcoming races, indicating his continued commitment to the team.
Komatsu characterized Haas as an enthusiastic owner who maintains high expectations for the team's performance. He acknowledged that while Haas's pressure for results can lead to frustration, it also reflects his deep investment in the team's success. Overall, Komatsu's comments suggest that Haas remains actively involved and dedicated to the team's progress in Formula 1.
via F1iCadillac braced for ‘difficult test’ at Monza, Budkowski warnsCadillac is set to compete in its first Formula 1 race at Monza, following a positive outing at Zandvoort. However, the team faces challenges at Monza due to the circuit's unique demands, which may expose weaknesses in their MAC-26 car, particularly regarding top speed and braking stability. Team principal Marcin Budkowski has acknowledged the difficulties ahead and emphasized the need for a realistic approach to the race weekend.
Colton Herta will take part in the first practice session, providing valuable feedback on the car's performance at this high-speed track. Budkowski highlighted the importance of learning from each lap to accelerate the team's development, as they aim to build a solid foundation for future races while navigating the challenges presented by Monza.
via RacingNews365Valtteri Bottas issues 'not satisfied' rally cry after surprise Cadillac shake-upValtteri Bottas, a driver for Cadillac's Formula 1 team, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the team's current performance, as they remain point-less after 12 races. The best result so far has been a 13th place finish at the Chinese Grand Prix, and Bottas noted that the team has been out-developed by competitors, leading to concerns about reliability and performance issues with their MAC-26 car.
In light of these challenges, Cadillac's CEO Dan Towriss has made a significant change by replacing team principal Graeme Lowdon with Marcin Budkowski, who brings a wealth of technical experience. Bottas supports this decision and stresses the importance of aiming for improvement rather than settling for mediocrity, highlighting the need for the team to progress in order to achieve better results in the future.
via grandprix.comHerta, Browning and Aron get Monza FP1 runsDuring the opening practice session at Monza, three reserve drivers will take the wheel for their respective teams as part of the mandatory rookie program. Colton Herta will drive for Cadillac, Luke Browning will replace Alex Albon at Williams, and Paul Aron will take over Pierre Gasly's Alpine. Each driver aims to gather valuable data and experience on the circuit, which is known for its unique demands on energy deployment and low-drag efficiency.
The session is significant for the teams as it allows them to complete their required rookie outings. Herta, Browning, and Aron are all looking to contribute to their teams' performance, with Browning also balancing his role with a Super Formula program. After the session, Aron plans to continue his work by using the insights gained from driving to assist in the simulator, further enhancing the team's setup ahead of the race weekend.
via thejudge13.comBottas confident about future with Cadillac in 2027Valtteri Bottas has expressed confidence in his continued role with Cadillac, dismissing concerns about his future with the team. Despite ongoing leadership changes within the organization, he remains optimistic about competing in 2027.
via f1oversteer.comYuki Tsunoda linked with Haas for 2027 seasonYuki Tsunoda has enhanced his chances of returning to Formula 1 after performing well during an emergency call-up at the Dutch Grand Prix. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu is considering Tsunoda for a potential seat as he seeks to re-enter the sport.
via RacingNews365Guenther Steiner praises Liam Lawson's mental toughnessLiam Lawson's recent performance at the Dutch Grand Prix was pivotal for his career in Formula 1. Red Bull acknowledged that he deserved more than a brief stint in the team, highlighting the importance of his comeback.
via Motorsport WeekAlpine and Cadillac announce driver replacements for F1 Italian GP practiceAlpine and Cadillac have announced driver changes for the free practice sessions at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix. Alpine will field Paul Aron in place of Pierre Gasly, while Cadillac will have Colton Herta substitute for Sergio Perez. Both drivers are looking to gain valuable experience during this session, with Aron participating in his fourth FP1 of the season and Herta in his third for Cadillac.
These adjustments come amid a backdrop of organizational changes within both teams, including Alpine's confirmation of Franco Colapinto for their 2027 lineup and Cadillac's new leadership under Marcin Budkowski. The trend of teams utilizing reserve drivers during practice sessions continues as they seek to evaluate their options for the future.
via RacingNews365Colton Herta Set for F1 Practice After Recent AccidentColton Herta is scheduled to participate in Free Practice 1 at the Italian Grand Prix for Cadillac. This opportunity comes shortly after he experienced a significant accident.
via AutosportHaas commits to 2026 season, rules out 2027 switchHaas is set to introduce updates for its VF-26 car as it faces challenges in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Team principal Ayao Komatsu and driver Oliver Bearman acknowledge that they have been outpaced by competitors.
via CrashStruggling midfield team confirms much-needed Monza F1 upgradesHaas is set to introduce a long-awaited upgrade package at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, aiming to improve their performance after a disappointing season. The team has struggled since the Canadian Grand Prix, where they last scored significant points, and has only managed to add two more points since then, both from the Monaco race. Audi has been closing in on them in the constructors' standings, intensifying the need for Haas to regain competitiveness.
Team principal Ayao Komatsu expressed the importance of maximizing practice time to evaluate the new upgrades, while driver Esteban Ocon is optimistic about the changes, hoping to leverage recent positive experiences in the car. With a busy race schedule ahead, Haas is focused on pushing forward in the midfield and reclaiming their earlier form.
via gpfans.comF1 star insists no concerns about his future after massive team firingValtteri Bottas, a driver for Cadillac, has stated that he is not worried about his future with the team following the unexpected firing of team principal Graeme Lowdon. Lowdon's departure was surprising to Bottas, who acknowledged that while changes were necessary, he did not anticipate such a significant shift in leadership. Marcin Budkowski has taken over as the new team principal, but Bottas has yet to work with him closely.
Despite Cadillac's struggles in their debut season, where neither driver has scored points, Bottas remains optimistic about his position. He is focused on the upcoming year and is open to discussions about his future beyond 2027. Bottas highlighted that drivers typically concentrate on performance and feedback rather than the team's structural decisions.
via F1iPerez putting vast F1 network to work for CadillacSergio Perez is playing a crucial role in Cadillac's entry into Formula 1 by utilizing his extensive network to help the team recruit talent. Despite not having the final say in hiring, he is actively recommending individuals he believes could enhance the team's performance as they establish themselves in the competitive landscape of F1. Cadillac's challenge is compounded by the reluctance of established teams to release key personnel, making Perez's connections particularly valuable.
In addition to recruitment, Perez sees potential in leveraging General Motors' vast motorsport experience to gain insights that could benefit Cadillac. He advocates for an open-minded approach to learning from other racing disciplines, which could help the team innovate and build its identity without being constrained by traditional F1 practices. As Cadillac prepares for its inaugural season in 2026, Perez's contributions extend beyond the racetrack, aiming to lay a strong foundation for the team's future success.Page 7 of 14